Anyone who is even slightly interested should check out ABANA for a blacksmithing group in your state [1]. Blacksmiths are, in general, very friendly and willing to share. Several times a year they have weekend meet-up at campgrounds and such that are also a great time. They usually offer classes, too.
The hobby can be very technical, or very artistic, depending on what you find interesting and focus on.
For CA: https://www.calsmith.org/